Simple Steps for Taking Charge of Your Personal Health

(ARA) - It is often said that little things make a big difference. From a simple thank you note to saying hello to a stranger on the street, the small tasks in life can often be the ones that set a person apart from the crowd. The same holds true when it comes to your health. Paying attention to the smaller details now may mean a healthier you later down the line.

Wal-Mart pharmacist Lori Mendoza says taking charge of your personal health begins with knowing and understanding your health conditions and family health history. “Knowing is half the battle,” says Mendoza. “For example, if you didn’t know you had high-blood pressure, you could be putting yourself at risk by taking certain medications.” Mendoza also recommends becoming familiar with your medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, and keeping them organized and up-to-date.

“Making positive changes to your health routine doesn’t have to be time consuming or difficult,” says Mendoza. To begin to take charge of your personal health, start with some simple organizational tasks:

* Carry a list of your health information. Take a moment to write down on a 3 by 5 or 5 by 7 index card the names and numbers of your emergency contacts, the name(s) and number(s) of your doctor(s), and which medications you are taking and why. Be sure to list the name and dosage of all of your prescription and over-the-counter medications, including vitamins and herbal supplements. Remember, this card is only helpful to you when it is easily accessible and on hand, so store the card in an everyday place like a wallet, purse, glove compartment, or checkbook.

* Be consistent. When filling your prescription medications try to use the same pharmacy. It is important for your pharmacist to know all of the prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking so they can alert you to any possible drug interactions.

* Keep it clean -- your medicine cabinet that is. A majority of American medicine cabinets are likely to contain expired or nearly empty over the counter or prescription medications. It is important to the health of everyone in the home to ensure that all medications are up-to-date and properly stored. Health experts advise cleaning out the medicine cabinet at least once a year. During this cleanup, throw out all expired, unlabeled, or unused prescription and over-the-counter medications. Restock expired medications and other essential items. Make sure to store them in their original packaging that contains valuable information on dosing, drug interactions, and precautions.

By adding these simple steps into your life you can be on your way to a year of increased wellness. For more information on personal health and wellness, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

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To find a Wal-Mart pharmacy near you, visit www.walmart.com.

 

Courtesy of ARA Content

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ARTICLE POSTED FEBRUARY 03, 2004

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